DuBiotech expands with new lab

The Nucleotide Laboratory Complex houses lab space for disciplines including life sciences, industrial and scientific research, biotechnology and pharmaceutical activities.

A technician works in a laboratory at the Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park.

DUBAI // The newest addition to Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) opened yesterday, expanding the scope of the facility to encompass more diverse fields of medical and scientific research, development and training.

The Nucleotide Laboratory Complex houses lab space for disciplines including life sciences, industrial and scientific research and development, biotechnology and pharmaceutical activities, diagnostics and equipment-training activities.

"Right now in the field of research and technology, biotechnology has taken the lead," said Dr Amin al Amiri, the Ministry of Health's chief executive of medical practices and licensing.

"To have DuBiotech enhances research and development in the medical field, but also in different technologies that support human health and pharmaceuticals."

Companies including the pharmaceutical giants Pfizer and Merck Sorono already have a presence at the biotech complex, which is located in Al Barsha.

"What we have done is built facilities that are important to companies involved in different stages of the process," said Marwan Abdulaziz, DuBiotech's director of business development.

"There is a process that starts with testing, then manufacturing and storage, before going into sales and marketing. We have looked at the process and planned our facilities accordingly."

Mr Abdulaziz said DuBiotech hoped to announce the addition of manufacturing facilities next year.

"The concept is to be the premier life sciences complex," he said. "We will announce some plants next year and we are expecting to have even more innovation and creativity. We believe that as long as we have the right platform and facilities, the companies will come."